Victim’s Family Mourns Loss of “Bright” Schoolboy as Police Launch Investigation
A 16-year-old boy was shot and killed in broad daylight near Stockwell Tube station in south London on Tuesday afternoon. According to his family, he was a “very bright” student who had his whole future ahead of him.
Gunmen, reportedly dressed as food delivery riders, carried out the fatal attack while riding a moped. Officers from the Metropolitan Police arrived at the scene on Paradise Road at 3:21 pm, alongside paramedics, but despite their efforts, the teenager was pronounced dead.
The boy’s family, who visited the scene to lay flowers in his memory on Wednesday, confirmed his first name as Lathaniel.
Shocking Attack in a Busy Area
A man who identified himself as the boy’s uncle but wished to remain unnamed alleged that the attackers disguised themselves as delivery riders before opening fire.
“They came on a moped dressed as Deliveroo drivers,” he claimed.
An eyewitness reported that two boys had emerged from a block of flats when the moped driver suddenly produced a firearm and shot Lathaniel. The second boy managed to flee before the assailants sped away.
Some accounts suggested that Lathaniel was well known in the neighbourhood and may have had links to local gangs. However, other relatives described him as a passionate Manchester United fan who enjoyed playing PlayStation 5 and had a close relationship with his only sibling, a sister.
Community in Shock
Residents of Stockwell expressed their disbelief and sadness at the incident. One woman, who knew Lathaniel’s mother, said he was academically gifted and that his father worked at a nearby go-karting centre.
“He was very bright at school,” she said.
Superintendent Gabriel Cameron, overseeing the local policing response, acknowledged the deep impact of the crime on the community.
“This is an incredibly shocking event, and I understand how distressing it is for local residents,” he stated. “Our thoughts are with the young boy’s family during this devastating time.”
Cameron assured the public that officers were gathering CCTV footage and speaking to witnesses while homicide investigators took charge of the case.
Concerns Over Safety
Aftab Khan, an 18-year-old shopkeeper near the crime scene, described the victim as a polite and well-mannered boy.
“He used to come into my shop often. Just yesterday, he bought a bottle of Fanta,” Khan recalled. “He always paid me back if he was short on money. He was a good kid.”
However, Khan admitted he now feared for his own safety.
“I’m scared. This area has become very dangerous.”
A local woman shared similar concerns, saying the attack had “shocked her to the core.”
“Stockwell has always had its fair share of crime, like phone theft, but this is something else. Teenagers should be enjoying their youth, not worrying about getting shot,” she said.
Another resident reflected on how crime levels had changed over the decades.
“This area hasn’t been like this since the 80s,” he remarked.
Police Investigation Underway
A crime scene remains in place, with forensic teams working at Stockwell Tube station to gather evidence. Scotland Yard confirmed that officers were working urgently to establish the victim’s full identity and notify his next of kin.
London Mayor Sadiq Khan condemned the attack, calling it “abhorrent violence” and reassuring the community that the police investigation was a top priority.
“This kind of violence has no place in our city,” he said. “Local residents will see an increased police presence as officers work to bring those responsible to justice.”
Lambeth Council also released a statement expressing its sorrow over the tragedy.
“We are devastated to learn that a teenage boy has lost his life in such horrific circumstances,” the statement read.
The search for the suspects continues as detectives appeal for witnesses to come forward.
